Frequently Asked Questions – Waitlist

Being placed on a college’s waitlist puts you in a state of limbo. You have waited several months to learn of an admission decision and now we have asked you to wait a bit longer. Like many students, you may wonder what happens next. We hope the information that follows answers some of the questions you may have.

When will I hear about coming off the waitlist?

As you know, May 1 is National Candidate Reply Date. In recent years, TCU has admitted students from the waitlist in the final two weeks of April.

How many students will be admitted from the waitlist?

The number of students admitted varies from year to year based on the response we get from students who have already been offered admission. Throughout recent years we have admitted as few as 38 and as many as 436 students from the waitlist.

Is the waitlist rank-ordered?

No. Every year TCU seeks to enroll a cross-section of our global society. The waitlist is used to fill gaps that may exist in meeting that goal. What is needed in one year may very well differ the next year.

What can I do to enhance my chances of admission?

First and foremost, you must accept your spot on the waitlist by using this form. You are invited to submit new academic information, as well. New self-reported scores may be sent to frogmail@tcu.edu.

Should I schedule a campus visit to interview?

We always welcome students on campus, but do not formally interview waitlisted students.

Will I still be able to pursue my intended major?

Yes. Because we use the waitlist to fill needs, we will only offer you admission if space in your major is available.

If I’m admitted from the waitlist, will I be eligible for academic scholarship?

Not likely. By the time we offer admission to students from the waitlist we have exhausted our pool of academic scholarship dollars.

If I’m admitted from the waitlist, will I be eligible for need-based financial aid?

Yes. Remember that to maximize financial aid opportunities you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS/Financial Aid PROFILE. Our Office of Financial Aid will create the best financial aid package possible once you have been admitted.

If I’m admitted from the waitlist, how much time will I have to submit the $900 enrollment deposit?

Students admitted from the waitlist will be notified of their enrollment deposit deadline on the admission decision letter and email.

Texas Christian University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools to award baccalaureate, masters, doctoral degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Texas Christian University.